Finding the right fit:
Let’s start with the basics. What does bridge inspection work look like? Well, it depends on the day as our environment is constantly changing. Our day-to-day is different than most, and that’s what we love about it. As an Assistant Bridge Inspector with Ayres, you could find yourself anywhere in Florida (and other states) atop some of the nation’s highest bridges – or you might find yourself diving under one or alongside them, assessing their condition on ground level. Beyond bridges, you’d also be inspecting overhead highway signs, mast arms, dams and other waterfront structures.

And we won’t sugar coat it. You’ll be tested physically and mentally. Assessing what bridges need repairing, and when, is an essential component to keeping the traveling public safe – and that’s where the rewarding part of the work comes in. As part of our structural inspection group, you can take pride in the fact that you’ll be performing critical, essential work that few others are capable of. Here’s a sneak peak of what else you’d be part of: 
Where will I travel to? 
Where the work is, which is mostly throughout Florida, and a few other states. We sometimes mobilize for up to two weeks at a time. Your travel expenses are covered and you can expect about 65% of your time to be spent in the field, with the remaining 35% in the office.
How do I know if I’ve got what it takes?
If you’re liking what you’re hearing so far, you probably do! Here are some other qualities we’re looking for in our inspectors:

• Problem-solvers. You’ll be challenged to use sight, sounds, and touch to provide fundamental inspection. Be ready for anything.
• Lovers of the great outdoors. Your work will inherently take you outside. We find that to be a “plus,” but it’s important to know from the get-go that you’ll be seeing different areas of the country in a variety of settings.
• Not afraid to get dirty – literally. This work is physical, requiring you to occasionally lift up to 50 pounds, and your clothes will need a good wash at the end of the day. Picture a construction zone or similar type environment – the conditions you’ll be working in are a lot like that.
• Detailed. Don’t be afraid to challenge both sides of your brain. The accuracy and detail of our reports is just as important as discovering deficiencies. Submitting thorough reports is a crucial component of our quest toward ensuring public safety.
• Career-minded. Want to start here but learn more skills as you go? We want that too! We’ll happily support your career journey and provide you with opportunities to grow through paid training, and professional development courses. Here is an example of timeline.
• Eligible to become a Team Leader with 5 years of experience, with no college degree.
• Eligible to become a Team Leader within 3 years of experience, with an AS degree.
• Eligible to become a Team Leader within 2 years of experience, with an BS degree.

What will I be expected to do?
Again, it depends on the day – but here are some of the sure-fire expectations.

• Function as part of a team and assist the Inspection Team Leader in performing field inspections report documentation.
• Assist in completing initial, routine, in-depth, and fracture-critical inspections of fixed, movable, and signature bridges; dams; hydraulic structures; and other miscellaneous structures for Agencies (federal, state, local) and private owners using National Bridge Inspection Standards (NBIS) and other relevant standards.
• Comfort in work around water, traffic and at heights is required. While performing the duties of this job, you’ll need to be able to swim, climb, and negotiate work areas.
• Participate in structural inspections including underwater and climbing inspections of bridges, dams and overhead signs and will complete inspection reports summarizing outcomes and condition assessments completed during inspections.
• Coordinate inspection details directly with project managers, lead inspectors, and clerical staff during preliminary and final report preparation to ensure quality and conformance to standards.

What do I need to come to the table with?
This is a “grow with us” kind of career. You will need to have the following skill sets, but we’re more than willing to help you further hone your skills.

• A high school diploma or equivalent.
• Proficiency with MS Suite, specifically Word and Excel.
• Physical ability to swim, climb, negotiate work areas, and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
• Flexibility to travel up to two weeks at a time.
• Valid driver’s license and good driving record required.

Desired skills and experiences:

• Certifications that are considered a plus in this profession:
  • Open water scuba diver certification or higher.
• Passion for diving, climbing, and construction experience a plus.
• Understanding of inspection codes and standards, and the ability to conform to such within the first six months of employment.

Benefits of being part of the Ayres team:  

• Health/dental/vision insurance offering affordable plans with flexible coverage options
• Short-term and long-term disability
• Development
• Paid membership dues to professional organizations
• Paid licensing exam/prep course for professional certification
• Encourage/reimburse for professional registrations and certifications.
• Work/Life Balance
• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid holidays [including two floating holidays]
• Flexible work schedules
• Financial
• Flexible spending plans and Health Savings Account (HSA) options
• 401(k) with company match
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
• Social
• Peer recognition program and mentor programs
• Young Professionals [YP] networking groups
• Sporting events, dragon boat races, annual parties, summer picnics, and more!

Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer: Minorities, Women, Veterans, People with Disabilities